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The European Court of Human Rights today issued its judgment on the Government’s application for a revision of the ruling in the 1978 Ireland v UK (Hooded Men) case.

The ruling will be fully considered by the Government.

It is important to note that, although the Court dismissed the Government’s application for a revision, nothing in today’s judgment alters the Court’s original 1978 ruling that the men suffered inhuman and degrading treatment, in breach of Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

My thoughts today are with the men who suffered this treatment, and who have had to deal with the long-lasting effects. I know that they will be understandably disappointed with this morning’s judgment.

I am due to meet the men in the coming weeks, and look forward to hearing their views.